Merging Similar Datasets

You can specify multiple datasets of the same format and with the same schema (data model). These datasets will be merged together when you run the translation.

1. Click the drop-down arrow beside Dataset.
2. Click Select Multiple Folders/Files to browse for and select individual files.
3. Click Add Folders to browse for and select specific folders.

All files in the specified format in the folders will be included.

Note: You can check the Subfolders box to include all subfolders below that folder. For formats such as ArcInfo Coverages, the dataset consists of an entire folder.

4. Check the Identical Schema box if you know that all files have the same schema.

If you check the box, then FME will not have to perform an initial scan of all the files to determine their schemas. Instead, FME will read the first file as representative of the data model.

5. To remove a folder from the list, select it and then click Remove.
   
6. Click OK. The new datasets will append to the original dataset name. When you run the translation, it will merge the specified datasets. The log window will display detailed information during the translation.

Note: The batch translation radio buttons will now be enabled. You can choose to merge files to one destination for a regular translation, or choose separate output destinations for each file. If you choose separate output destinations, you will be running a batch translation.